Sex And The City star Sarah Jessica Parker is ‘shocked and overcome with grief’ at the tragic death of her British designer friend Alexander McQueen.

Parker released a statement Thursday detailing her grief at her friend’s death at the age of just forty, “ I am shocked and overcome with grief upon learning about the untimely death of the quiet genius Alexander McQueen.

“My heart goes out to his family and all those who worked for and with him. In his atelier, his showroom, his stores and various business interests that were so rapidly growing, he was beloved. By all of them.

“He was talented well beyond his years and the seriousness and unrivaled talent which he applied to his work is in bountiful display year after year and collection after collection.

“Every single inspired, original, lofty, whimsical, stunning, brilliant and jaw dropping detail was Alexander Mcqueen. There has never been anyone like him. And there simply never will be.

“What is more devastating is that despite all his success thus far, creatively, critically and commercially, . His greatest achievements lay ahead of him. The future would be whatever he hoped to make of it.

Victoria Beckham, who was frequently photographed in McQueen designs, said: “McQueen was a master of fashion, creative genius and an inspiration.

“Today thhe fashion industry has lost a true great. An icon of all time. He made all he touched beautiful and will be desperately missed.

“My heart is very much with his family and friends at this very sad time.”

The designer was also a favorite for Lady Gaga, Rihanna and even Prince Charles, amongst others.

A rep from McQueen’s office released a statement saying: “At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with [McQueen’s] family.”